Godlingston Heath walk
This scenic walk encompasses sweeping views across the heath to Little Sea and Studland Bay and also takes in the mysterious Agglestone, a huge block of iron-rich sandstone that remains a prominent feature of the landscape.
Total steps: 7
Total steps: 7
Start point
Middle Beach car park, Studland. Grid ref: SZ036829
Step 1
From the car park walk up Beach Road. At the top, turn left between the toilet block and the village pond. Take the narrow snowdrop path at the top of the green. It will take you past an ancient pear tree and the remains of an old stone cottage, before bringing you out in front of Studland Stores.
Step 2
Cross the main road and continue along Heath Green Road. You will see apple orchards on your left. Turn right down Agglestone Road and follow the track up behind the houses. As you reach the end of the track, keep your eyes peeled for Dartford warblers and stonechats.
Step 3
The kissing gate at the end of the track brings you onto Godlingston Heath. Follow the path uphill onto Black Down Mound, where you will be rewarded with wonderful views to your right across the heath to the coastline, with the impressive Agglestone in the middle distance.
Step 4
Continue along the ridge and, when you meet the gravel track, turn right. At the crossroads, turn right and follow the path down to the Agglestone. From here you can see Little Sea in the distance: an acidic freshwater lake that was cut off from the sea around 100 years ago.
Step 5
Take the path that leads down the slope on the other side of the Agglestone and follow the path through the mire. Where the path forks, turn right heading towards the trees.
Step 6
Turn right at the next junction, heading into the woodland. Then turn right again over the bridge and continue through the bridle gate. Just after Wadmore Farm House, you will see an old brick kiln on your right.
Step 7
After passing the kiln, take the footpath on your right. It is immediately after, and runs adjacent to, the bridleway. At the next junction, follow the footpath round to the left. As the track widens, keep to the right and continue along the footpath in front of you until you reach Heath Green Road. Turn left and follow the road back towards Studland Stores. Cross the main road and follow the snowdrop path, then Beach Road, back to your starting point.
End point
Middle Beach car park, Studland. Grid ref: SZ036829
Trail map
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